Lingual Orthodontics and Saklıtel Appliance

Orthodontic treatments not only provide an aesthetic appearance but also ensure a healthy mouth and dental structure. However, many people hesitate to opt for this treatment due to the appearance of traditional braces. Fortunately, lingual orthodontics can be a solution to these concerns.

What is Lingual Orthodontics?

Lingual orthodontics involves placing braces on the back of the teeth, meaning no brackets or wires are visible on the front of the teeth. Therefore, this method is considered a completely aesthetic option for teeth straightening.

Lingual orthodontics moves the teeth similarly to traditional braces. However, the advantage of lingual orthodontics is that the brackets are placed on the back of the teeth, making them invisible from the front.

Lingual orthodontics can be applied at any age. This method eliminates the risk of wear and cavities (in the presence of poor oral hygiene) caused by traditional braces on the front surfaces of the teeth. However, lingual orthodontic treatment can be more expensive compared to traditional braces.

What is the Saklıtel Appliance?

The Saklıtel appliance is a lingual orthodontic system designed by myself, Dr. Cihan Aydoğan. It is quite similar to custom-made lingual orthodontic appliance systems that began to be used worldwide in 2002. Alternatively, it can be applied more economically as it is prepared in laboratories located in Turkey.

Why Use Custom-Made Lingual Orthodontic Appliances?

The lingual (inner) surfaces of the teeth have more anatomical differences compared to the outer surfaces. Therefore, it is not possible to apply brackets and wires directly to the teeth in mass production forms as in traditional wire treatment.

In lingual orthodontic treatments, many laboratory techniques have been developed since the 1980s to customize mass-produced brackets using filling materials. However, brackets personalized with filling materials naturally have a higher thickness, which can be somewhat uncomfortable for the tongue.

When brackets and wires are designed specifically for the patient's teeth on a computer and prepared in a laboratory, they can be much thinner and more comfortable for the tongue.

Is It Possible to Get Used to Lingual Orthodontic Treatment?

Yes, it is possible to get used to lingual orthodontic treatment. The first few weeks may be a bit challenging for your tongue and the inside of your mouth as the lingual brackets are placed on the back of your teeth. However, over time, you will get used to the presence of the brackets on the back of your teeth and may not even feel them.

Lingual orthodontic treatment requires a treatment process similar to traditional braces. In the first few days, you may feel some discomfort in your mouth due to the pressure applied by the lingual brackets on your teeth. Additionally, using a toothbrush and dental floss can be a bit more challenging as the lingual brackets are on the back of the teeth. However, as you adapt to lingual orthodontic treatment, you can overcome these issues.

Lingual orthodontic treatment is considered an aesthetic option as the brackets on the back of the teeth are not visible from the front. Additionally, the movement of the teeth and the treatment process are similar to traditional braces.

Should I Choose Clear Aligners or Lingual Orthodontics?

Both clear aligners and lingual orthodontics are aesthetic treatment options used to straighten your teeth. To determine which is better for you, you need to consider your needs, budget, and the type of orthodontic treatment you require during the treatment process.

Clear aligners consist of custom-made transparent trays designed to straighten your teeth. Every two weeks, you use a new tray that fits your teeth to gradually move them. Clear aligners are considered a more aesthetic option compared to traditional metal braces. Additionally, using a toothbrush and dental floss is easier as you can remove the trays.

Lingual orthodontics is a treatment option that uses braces placed on the back of the teeth to straighten them. Lingual braces are invisible from the outside as they are on the back of the teeth, making them a more aesthetic option. However, lingual orthodontics can be more challenging in terms of using a toothbrush and dental floss, and the presence of the brackets can be a bit difficult for your tongue and the inside of your mouth to get used to.

When deciding which option to choose, you should also consider factors such as the duration of the treatment, how often you need to visit your dentist, and the cost of the treatment. Additionally, your treatment requirements, especially the type of corrections needed for your teeth and the condition of your oral health, should be taken into account. The best option for planning your treatment is to consult with a professional.